Google and ISTE+ASCD Open Free AI Training to Every U.S. Educator
Every K-12 teacher and higher ed faculty member in the U.S. will soon get free access to AI literacy training. Google is building modules that meet ISTE+ASCD standards and guidelines, with flexible resources intended for roughly 6 million educators across grade levels and subject areas.
"If we want students to use AI to be responsible, creative, problem solvers, every educator needs the knowledge and confidence to guide them," said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD. "This partnership is about ensuring all teachers have basic AI readiness that becomes a foundational skill in every classroom."
What you'll learn
- How to use AI tools such as Gemini and NotebookLM for planning and instruction.
- Create timely, personalized lessons using assessment results.
- Give students virtual study coaches and guide writing practice.
- Adapt materials to specific learning needs and contexts.
- Build customized course materials with your own sources.
- Bias awareness, responsible use, and instructional fit.
Teachers who complete the program will earn micro-credentials or badges. ISTE+ASCD will help develop and deliver the training.
Why this matters
Schools are adjusting to AI's growing role, and many teachers say they're being asked to use it without support. "If teachers aren't provided the support they need, students will not have the guidance and mentorship to use AI in ways that support effective learning," Culatta said.
Google reports educators are already using these tools to build interactive games, prompt reflection on exam answers, and coach students through writing. The new modules package those use cases into practical, classroom-ready steps.
How to participate
- Fill out Google's interest form with your name, institution, and preferences (live, K-12, higher ed, etc.).
- Pick one high-impact use case to start: faster lesson updates from assessment data, a study coach for review, or differentiated materials.
- Collect clean source materials you can upload to NotebookLM (syllabi, readings, rubrics) to create context-aware support.
- Set simple classroom rules for AI use (what's allowed, how to cite AI assistance, and when to work without it).
Standards and outcomes
The training reflects ISTE+ASCD's profile of an AI-ready graduate-students who can use AI to learn new skills, synthesize information, solve problems, collaborate, and communicate complex ideas. Modules are built around practical classroom moves so you can apply ideas the same day.
Keep learning
If you want a structured path while you wait for the rollout, explore our AI Learning Path for Teachers for classroom integration, lesson planning ideas, and micro-credential options.
Your membership also unlocks:
